Who’s the Boss of You? Dealing with the Tough Stuff

Social And Emotional Learning

Who's the Boss of You? Dealing with the Tough Stuff – for Kids

We have the power to choose!

The more control we have over what happens, the less stressed out we feel. While kids can’t control most of what happens around them, they CAN learn ways to make choices about how to react. Stress relief, coping strategies, and decision-making tools help kids consider healthier choices when faced with real-life situations.

“Stress relief” tools positively affect a child’s entire life. This includes increasing concentration, dealing with such challenges as test anxiety, and building more self-control. The natural calm produced by relaxing exercises can change their perspective while teaching an important lesson – happiness can be a choice. Coping strategies include:

Calming breathing techniques with progressive relaxation.
Switching from anger to calm – experience how feelings change with choices.
Visualizing (mental pictures) and affirmations so new behaviors can match new choices.
Talking to yourself as if you are your very own best friend because you are!